The UK communications regulator Ofcom has launched an investigation into TikTok over concerns that the platform's age verification processes may be inadequate, potentially exposing children to harmful online content. According to Ofcom, TikTok's reliance on age inference technology, which estimates a user's age by analyzing their online behavior rather than directly verifying it with identification, may not effectively safeguard young users. This practice could be in violation of Britain's Online Safety Act, which mandates the use of highly effective age verification methods.
Ofcom's press release expressed specific worries about TikTok's current age assurance practices, noting that these methods may have failed to accurately identify a significant number of underage users. The Online Safety Act, aimed at protecting minors from harmful content such as pornography and posts related to suicide or eating disorders, allows for significant penalties. Companies found in breach can face fines of up to £18 million or 10% of their global revenue. In severe cases, the government may even prohibit platforms from operating within the country.
The UK government, led by the Labour Party, is also considering legislation to prohibit children under 16 from accessing social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and others. This proposed legislation is expected to be presented to Parliament by Christmas. Ofcom is preparing to provide an analysis to Parliament on what constitutes highly effective age verification.
TikTok, on its part, maintains that it strictly enforces age-appropriate experiences through well-informed platform policies and advanced age inference technologies. The company has stated its commitment to working with Ofcom to demonstrate compliance with the Online Safety Act. Ofcom plans to update the public on the investigation's progress in October.